Which of the following is a common sequence of procedures to follow during a critical incident?

• A. Verifying the incident, following chain of command, determining the level of response, setting up a perimeter, conducting evacuations, and resolving the incident
• B. Making preparations, verifying the incident, following chain of command, determining the appropriate level of response, setting up a perimeter, conducting evacuations, and resolving the incident
• C. Making preparations, verifying the incident, following the chain of command
• D. Ignoring the incident and waiting for external guidance

Answer: (B)

Starting with preparation gives you a foundation to act quickly and cohesively when something happens. Verifying the incident confirms it’s real and helps you assess the scope and severity before mobilizing resources. Following the established chain of command ensures authority, accountability, and coordinated action across all responders. Determining the appropriate level of response prevents overreactions or underreactions, guiding how many personnel and what assets are needed. Setting up a perimeter protects everyone by controlling access to the affected area and maintaining scene integrity. Conducting evacuations, if required, moves people to safety and reduces exposure to danger. Finally, resolving the incident involves stabilizing the situation, reestablishing operations, and debriefing for lessons learned.

Skipping any of these steps—like not preparing, not verifying, bypassing the chain of command, neglecting to determine the level of response, failing to perimeter the area, or delaying evacuations—leaves the response disorganized and unsafe. Waiting for external guidance instead of acting within a prepared, structured plan is not appropriate for a critical incident.